PROBLEM:

The student is to design and construct the lightest possible bridge to hold 10 pounds. The bridge must be built according to the
specifications.

 

SPECIFICATIONS:

1. The bridge must span a minimum of 10”

2. The bridge must be open down the center so that a 2” x 2” x 2” block can slide through the center from end to end. This block will support the weight and may be positioned in locations listed under #3.

3. The road bed and top of the bridge must be open to allow a 3/8” load bearing rod to pass through the road bed at the center of the bridge (measured end to end) and 2” either side of the center. Testing may occur at any one of these three positions.

4. Only balsa wood, 1/8” x 1/4” in cross section or smaller, and glue may be used in construction of the structure. No other materials may be in the final project.

5. A drawing must be submitted with the structure.

6. If one or more structural members or glue joints break, the bridge will be determined not to have held the 10 pounds.

 

CRITERIA FOR JUDGING:

The lightest bridge to hold the 10 pounds wins. In case of a tie, the quality of the drawing will be considered.